The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday assured that it will always comply with established rules on procurement in acquiring equipment and other platforms for its modernization program.

“While we appreciate the Russian Ambassador’s expressed willingness to help modernize the AFP, and their country may be a source, we abide by the established process of procurement for purposes of upgrading our capability,” AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Arevalo was responding to the remarks of Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev during a press briefing with reporters covering the foreign affairs beat last September 25.

Aside from equipment and weapons, the Russian diplomat pointed out that Moscow is ready to supply sophisticated arms and weapons and staff training to the Philippines.

Also, the AFP spokesperson said that equipment intended for the AFP Modernization Program is not sourced from any particular country but dependent upon the approval by Defense Acquisition System Assessment Team (DASAT) of the recommendation of the TWG from the proponent branch of service.

“The implementation of our modernization program proceeds from a thorough study by a technical working group that takes into account the gaps in our operational requirements; the best solutions available in the market to address the gap; the ease of integration in our current inventory of equipment and assets; and the maintenance schedules including parts and services,” Arevalo added. PNA.GOV.PH